This makes me feel really good about buying the gen 3 combo during the OPT flash sale. I was afraid that I might regret not going with the newest generation. I think the only think I missed out on was 3 lights and spending a lot of extra money. Plus I got a free bare Sawzall and pack out box. Niiiice.
Makes me feel good too. I bought two Gen 3 kits with the Home Depot deals lately. I’ll save my $400 to finish 1/10th of a second faster and running 10-15 degrees hotter.
Just picked up a new impact because my first gen just died, the store didn't have the Gen 4 so I got the Gen 3 and watching that review, I'm real glad I did get the Gen 3. Thanks for your solid review!
I’ve bought 2 gen 4 impacts both broke in the same way, something was making the “impact mode” stay on even when just pulling the trigger and not screwing/drilling anything. I usually try to inspect all toys I own or anything for that matter to fix it myself cause I’m a cheap ass but I was really but hurt when I bought 2 of these gen 4’s totally in love with it just to be out 300$ in the same year
Definitely getting the Gen 4. Milwaukee Fuel Gen 3 impact driver hands down my favorite. I’m hoping in the near future we see a Gen 2 m18 surge. That would be awesome. Thanks for the testing fellas. Really appreciate the comparisons so quick. Everyone has been waiting for this
@@praetorianstride5948 I'm pretty sure M12 is a generation behind. The new release was the 3rd gen. While m18 is on gen 4. Just letting you know you might be waiting a while if you want the m12 gen 4. Personally I want to see the gen 2 surge in m12 and m18. Hydraulic drivers are very nice but also much slower. A speed increase would be appreciated
Well after searching all night for black friday sales i couldnt decide what to get. I was going to buy the standard brushless kit but the drill and impact lacked a bit compared to the gen 4 fuel. After failing to build the kit i truly wanted with all the "free" tools. $400 for the kit plus a router/jigsaw just wasnt what i was after. Found milwaukee is selling gen 3 fuel kits for $280 which i didnt even realize the difference till now. Saved $120 for a more than capable kit and in my view outperformed the gen 4 in alot of test. However them lights are way nicer on gen 4. But at the end of the day i have a nice kit and my $120 can go towards the bare tool i want. Great review.
Gonna upgrade from M18 non-Fuel Brushless impact driver. Served me well in the last 3 years, but now it's time to get more power. Was gonna get the Gen 3, but after seeing this, the Gen 4 is basically a Gen 3 with slightly faster RPM and IPM and a tri-LED light.
I’ve got gen 3 and think I will skip, not because there is minimal difference but my gen 3 is way too new to switch. I love it and will run it till it’s dead. Now if I needed to replace it, I’ll go gen 4, why wouldn’t I?
Great comparison video, I just like the way you guys do this. You make it interesting and fun to watch, with actual facts and real world usage that we can see. Well done Vince, keep up the good work 👍👍
They were already pushing on the higher end with gen3 it makes sense that barely anything changed. My 5 year old dewalt still does everything, I just got the gen3 for heavier applications.
I have the gen 3 and decided to get the gen 4. Returned it after a few days of using it. I personally don’t feel no difference other than the light. I’m more than fine with my gen 3, and I do a bunch of cabinet work, building decks, framing where you need to use the screws for trusses and other stuff like that and a bunch of other wood working projects. Just didn’t seem like it was really worth the extra money for something new. I’m fine with waiting until a gen 5 comes out. I had the old brushless impact and there was night and day difference between that and the gen 3. I will wait until another drill comes out with a big difference. I know people will buy the gen 4 though because people love throwing money like it’s nothing. I got the hammer drill/impact kit along with 100 piece drill bits and also 23 piece metal drill bits on a deal all for $162 off Home Depot awhile back. Best deal I had seen in a while. Came in a hard case and all
I dont think there is enough in the Gen 4 to get me to “upgrade” from my gen 3.5! However, I am VERY curious how it stacks up against the Flex!!!!! Thanks for all the effort you put into your videos Vince…great entertainment value and informative! Cheers!
Maybe not a big upgrade in performance but the new lights are nice to have. Plus I'm sure they spent a lot of time trying to solve the trigger issues. Probably just an all around better tool not just performance upgrade. Me personally I'll be waiting on the new M12 stuff to upgrade to from current gen!
I'm wondering if the tail of the two will be revealed if you swap out the xc5.0 for for some H.O. batteries, I got a hunch that the technology in the Gen 4 allows it to take better advantage of them 21700 cells. Maybe even already programmed to take better advantage of pouch cells with better efficiency who knows, the gen 3 M12 are programmed to take advantage of the new HO batteries, maybe same technology is in the M18. I'd like to see this test ran again with some newer battery technology. 🤞🤞
I don’t think the newer generations are necessarily “programmed” to take more advantage of higher output batteries. I think that the “red link” or “red lithium advantage” in every Milwaukee tool allows the chip in the tool to see what the peak amperage it can consistently draw under load. I say this because with both the M12 and M18 high output batteries they advertised 20% more power in tools that had been released years ago.
I’m sure the newer generations are created with higher output in mind, not that the previous weren’t- but that the chips onboard are more efficient than the PCBs of 4-7 years ago,
Thanks for the tool test. I love my Milwaukee tools. I liked the side by side comparison even though half the video it was difficult to see who had the 3 and who had the 4. Overall I would say if you have the 3, there's not enough difference to "upgrade" to the new model. Just the information I needed. Thank you.
Im a Milwaukee Fanboy but definitely not opposed to using other brands. Ive just been in the ecosystem for over 10 year and have never had any major issues. I do take extremely good care of my tools by using them correctly. I rarely use an impact to drill holes or a drill to drive screws. I make use of mid torque for medium duty and high torque for heavy as to not over work my tools
@@PrussianBlu3 He says he rarely uses an impact to drill holes or a drill to drive screws. That means he normally drills holes with a drill and he drives screws with an impact.
That's a tough one... The lights are better on gen 4 but if you're using your driver all day that vibration is going to kill you. Unless you work in a dark place it seems the gen 3 with less user fatigue is a no brainer choice
M24 seem not to be a bad idea thought. But the 18v its nice because when using smaller tool like impact etc the batteries are not huge . The 40v makita for instance its very great line of tool but the 40v need 2p batterie wich i don't like that much . Its why i think 18v its the best
@@OUTILSCLIPSQC 18v is 20v, it's just a different reading of the voltage. 18/20v = 5s which is 5 cells in series, packs are available in 5x1 5x2 and 5x3 A 24v would be 6s or 6 cells in series, so packs would only be very slightly larger.
Seems like a step down in terms of getting into tighter spaces also, because of the triLED it doesn't really taper and that's a bigger problem than anything else. That heat buildup could also be a concern for longer term durability
@@kyle3045 if they'd incorporated the ¼" socket external shape of the collet that Bosch have, it would be a game changer. As is I don't see it as a replacement for the gen 3 but rather a tool for construction sites where you have good access but poor lighting, adding the easy change to a ¼" socket without an adaptor would be an amazing compact and versatile tool that covers many roles
I have the gen 3 impact and hammer drill set. I also have the gen 4 set of both. I prefer the gen 4 only because of tri light and being more compact for tighter spaces. I have 2 sets of each gen for my guys on the job site. If you want performance for the buck. Get gen 3. If more compact and the light matters. Get gen 4. It’s minimal on the compactness difference though
In my job I fit tin roof sheets a lot and the fastening mode is useless it works occasionally but more often than not it doesn't tighten down the rubber washer to make it waterproof
I replayed the video and the Gen 4 had more vibration (6:00- & 7:25-minute marks) and ran hotter than the Gen 3. Heat is what kills equipment, both electrical & mechanical. Add vibration to heat and the life-span diminishes ever more rapidly (ask any Reliability Engineer, like me). Based on this sample of one, each, the Gen 3 will last longer than the Gen 4.
I have Gen3, awesome power tools. No need for extended bit. The Torx itself is enough. When put together it adds more kinetic energy on the tool itself - wear and tear - keep it short and sweet.
I, too, bought a Gen 3 (with dual ball bit holder) a few months ago based on VCG's real-world reviews & comparisons. I am a DIY'er that appreciates and uses high-quality, contractor-grade tools. I have four old Dewalt 14.4 drills which still run fine, but was intrigued by the impact drivers, so I bought the Milwaukee M18 Fuel driver for about $90 (driver only). I bought the Milwaukee charger and two (cheap) aftermarket batteries for much less than half the price of Milwaukee batteries. They hold-up just fine for my projects and charge faster than I can discharge them. I turn to VCG for reviews on accessories too. I thought the 30-piece Dewalt impact set was nice until I found the Milwaukee 100-piece set for about twice the price as the Dewalt, but with a much wider variety of bit sizes, types & lengths.
I have been using the gen3 for a few years and it's great, the only thing I dislike is progressive control/feel. I find it can be too over powered for day to day tasks as it ends up wanting to spin out, or bust bits over and over again. As where I find makitas impact works great for everyday use with progressive feel but the power isn't there. So I was hoping to see if the gen4 had a more progressive feel rather than focusing on power and speed
Ridgid fan 1 of my batteries just died went to use the warranty have to take to shop none near me. I was waiting for gen 4 to see how good it's is might just buy gen 3 before they're all gone. Great job 👍
I will be upgrading from my brushed Milwaukee 2656-20 to Milwaukee gen 4. I can’t seem to get my hands on a gen 3 because they are always sold out here in Canada but the gen 4 doesn’t seem to be selling really good right now.
I’ve got all m18 fuel tools gen 3 both impact drivers. Oscillating tool, hacksaw, hammer drill and brushed orbital sander, grinder, saws all and fan. It pays to wait to save money. I started with m12 but I wanted more power.
I'd like to see you put the Gen 4 up against the M18 Fuel Surge Impact Driver. I was thinking about getting the Surge for work because it's a little quieter than the basic tool. But if the M18 Fuel Gen 4 beats it out. Just might have to change what I get.
@@johnnyt4654 I am actually thinking of getting the Gen 4 for work. It'll come in really handy when replacing some things on Semi Tractors or Trailers.
@@VCGConstruction just do what you do brother a ttr were gonna have to put it against flex 24v id also like to see some ho batteries in it aswell mabey it needs the high output batteries to get optimal results 😉
So, what I am seeing that the only really difference is lighting and heat? Does the Gen 4 improved lighting add to the heat? The new cost higher on the Gen 4 than you can get a Gen 3? Something to contemplate. Ridgid Ron
Hello again Vince and Vcg Thank you for another Great Video 👍 I think, I will stay with M12 for now. It does everything I need!!!!! I enjoy watching. Again thank you
I’m a diy’er with a 2600 model drill I found in my late fathers garage, anxiously waiting on gen4s release. However, I am not really seeing a noticeable difference between them, you tell me. Gen3 has had time to be improved, and it would seem to be just as good if not better.
This is the test I was waiting for Vince. I think I might get those Gen3 tool deals that they are going to be wanting to get rid of to bring in the Gen 4.
I love the m12. I don’t need much more other than tearing through brick, (which is often) which it can do but it takes more time. I love the tri-leds. That is a huge selling point for me.
Been working with the gen 3 for the last few years been great before tht I had the hydraulic surge version tht was quite use to break screws a lot so am about to order this new gen 4 so looking forward to see the different liking the upgrade on the lighting so far the thts a winner already
I have the gen 3.5 and I just purchased the gen 4 today. After seeing this video I’m a little concerned. Hope I made a good long lasting choice. To be honest I really only bought it for the Tri light, I didn’t expect more power. I can’t imagine even needing any more power than what the gem 3 offers.
Vince Jimmy thanks for making the video... I think I will wait a bit & stick with my gen 3 for now. Maybe if the run some great promotion on gen 4. I will pick it up . Not going to pay full price. I use m12 more then m18. I like the smaller form factor.
lol thats why had to get the gen 4. My ryobi from 2015 has the tri light. game changer. Now Milwaukee needs to add the magnet and bit holder that my ryobis have. Still not used to not having them...
Thanks for the tool test Vince. Jimmy looking good hope you're doing good. Not too excited about Gen 4. The improved collet and Tri Lights with 100 more impacts per minute should have been on Gen 3. I'll stick with my single LED, less than great collet, and intermittent dead trigger for a bit longer.
Nice comparison vid, and wish Milwaukee at pipeline had this kind of test going on as well as using other brand’s tools. It would be nice if at new tool events, the companies/brands, what have you; ALSO HAD PRIOR GEN of the tools to run and actually compare differences in last gen to new gen; would be cool to see, but not sure anyone has done this. Could be wrong…. Thx Vince and Jimmy, you guys rock (and that slo-mo w/ vibration of gen 4, looked like and sds hitting you😉) Cheers✌🏻
Thanks for the video as always. Love that y’all give the facts and not just say buy the latest. By any chance what would you guys recommend for fastening SDS screws? I burned through my gen 3.5 m18 impact. My flexvolt advantage dewalt drill does great with them but can’t get into the tight spaces between studs.
I wish they would do a thermal test and a comparison when both are hot and how much it takes to get them hot those are honestly more important than cold performance
We've had all the Milwaukee impacts over the years... Gen 3 has problems with the trigger where it stays in either forward or reverse and won't switch right away... Also the bit never stays in...
I like the trilight I've always admired that in DeWalt but I'm sticking with gen for 3. If a gen 2 surge came out with a tri-light I would buy one of them
Hey Vince, been a while. Still crankin out some great videos, thanks bro. All these speed tests and comparisons are great, but........... What I think we really need to see are some long term durability tests. How long do these tools actually last out in the field before they fail. Kinda difficult to drive screws if your driver has gone deep six. Might be something to look at. How many work hours can you expect out of a cordless tool before it needs repaired or replaced. Me personally, my feelings are a little mixed with Milwaukee M18 Fuel. On one hand I've been using a gen 2 hammer drill / driver set, 4 1/2- 5 in grinder and hackzall for 2 years with zero issues. Even dropped the hackzall in a grease trap full of water with an 8 hour battery, blew it out and let it dry, and it ran fine with the same battery. Framing nailer, rear handle circ saw, no issues. However, radio died after a week. Homedepot replaced it. 9in grinder died on the job after 7 months. Took a month to get it repaired. 1 1/4 rotary hammer died after 11 months. Milwaukee has had it now for almost 2 months with no word as of yet when I can expect to get it back. You have a pretty good sized crew with an assortment of tools and brands. How well do your all's tools hold up. Or maybe take a survey and make a chart with comparisons. Be sure to include the type of work they perform. I do mostly comercial site work and concrete with a bit of framing and electrical mixed in so my tools take a beating. It might be time to sacrifice some tools for the cause. 🤔 You and the crew have a great holiday and stay safe.
Didn’t see too much of a difference besides the lights of course, but I was gonna get the Gen 3 cause I only run the Gen 2 m12 fuel right now, but the Gen 4 looks nice. Thanks for the video Vince!
@@VCGConstruction is there an actually release date for the Gen 4 impact or is it just sometime in August? I’d love to get my hands on it. My Gen 2 M12 fuel is very nice as an electrician’s apprentice, but sometimes it isn’t as strong as I’d like, and that new impact would help out a lot.
I have the Gen 3 M18 Fuel impact I will be keeping it for a while0 Especially after Milwaukee just sent me a brand new one-key Double bearing updated version of the Gen3
What about the new Gen 4 Milwaukee Impact driver vs the DeWalt DCF850? Which one is more compact and more powerful???? I'm curious if Milwaukee caught up with the compactness as it looks slightly the same just with the chuck area being a bit smaller? Also no Powerstack technology from Milwaukee.... curious how the DCF850 with a power stack will stack up against the Milwaukee Gen 4 with a 5AH battery! Also we got 5Ah Powerstack batteries coming!!!
I have it and I like it, but it is not nearly as powerful as the M18 Fuel. I own both, like them both, if I had to choose one it will definitely be the Milwaukee
Been holding out for gen 4 or 3.5 since your earlier videos of the bit getting stuck in the wood. Kinda surprised it didn't happen this time around with the G3.... I'll be buying the G4
@@bbcamillo yeah look up the impact. Comes with a 3.0 for $129 which a decent deal in itself but if you don’t want the 3.0, return it and the impact comes out to about $68.
Go Vince! I've, NO We've been waiting for this for a bit! If all they did was fix the Chuck issue and add those lights its enough for me to get it. I love my Gen ll OneKey which I'll probably frame & mount as my most used & valued tool next to my 5-N-1. Yeah Vince, Its the lights!
Heat destroys. I wonder if it’s getting hotter, because they have done some cost savings with heat sync & mass. I’d still buy the gen3 over the 4. Seems to have basically the same motor. Can’t wait to see a tear down of each to compare.
I don’t currently have a impact driver. I have been watching and May make the move to Milwaukee from Ryobi and see how it goes. My application is self drilling screws into hard metal for wood walls in my metal building. Where is best place to purchase Milwaukee?
The real question is: did they improve the trigger control on delicate fasteners? It already had more than enough power to compete with anything on the market.
@@VCGConstruction cabinet screws when installing kitchens for example. The gen 3's trigger control is kinda difficult to control and ramps up to full bore too quickly in my opinion. I know you shouldn't use an impact driver for really delicate work, but sometimes it happens :p.
Cool stuff 😎 I think there both top of the line tools. I'm a Metabo Bosch kind of guy, but if I had to pick one. I would go Gen 4 because I like the LED lights on Gen 4. Thanks for the video Vince.
Also on gen 3 and I’m not sure about gen 4 you don’t have to pull out the locking mechanism to insert different tooling it’s quick connect just push in the bit and it locks in by itself with out pulling the lock mechanism out like on the older m18 1/4 hex impact drivers
I'm upgrading from gen 2. New lights and smaller design with even more power is great for me. If you have gen 3 I don't think it's worth it
Watch the slow mo footage, lights are improved Bigly!
The difference in power between my old gen 2 and gen 3 was night and day. However, the tri-LED on the gen 4 looks like a huge upgrade.
coming from the m18 "brushless" mid-range. it's a big heeall yeeeah!
I just bought the Gen 3 with the free 3AH HO battery. Idk if I should get the gen 4 just to have it.
@@Papiiswagg, you can never have too many impacts! I bet you also have the Surge.
This makes me feel really good about buying the gen 3 combo during the OPT flash sale. I was afraid that I might regret not going with the newest generation. I think the only think I missed out on was 3 lights and spending a lot of extra money. Plus I got a free bare Sawzall and pack out box. Niiiice.
Should have bought dewalts latest,its smaller with the same power.
Glad you scored Mark!
gen 3s a beast mate good work
Makes me feel good too. I bought two Gen 3 kits with the Home Depot deals lately.
I’ll save my $400 to finish 1/10th of a second faster and running 10-15 degrees hotter.
@@djsi38t the 850 and 840 are far from the same power. Even with Powerstack.
Just picked up a new impact because my first gen just died, the store didn't have the Gen 4 so I got the Gen 3 and watching that review, I'm real glad I did get the Gen 3. Thanks for your solid review!
Glad the video helps
I’ve bought 2 gen 4 impacts both broke in the same way, something was making the “impact mode” stay on even when just pulling the trigger and not screwing/drilling anything. I usually try to inspect all toys I own or anything for that matter to fix it myself cause I’m a cheap ass but I was really but hurt when I bought 2 of these gen 4’s totally in love with it just to be out 300$ in the same year
Definitely getting the Gen 4. Milwaukee Fuel Gen 3 impact driver hands down my favorite. I’m hoping in the near future we see a Gen 2 m18 surge. That would be awesome. Thanks for the testing fellas. Really appreciate the comparisons so quick. Everyone has been waiting for this
Awesome cuz! 👍🏻
gen 4s ok but if you have a gen 3 theres not much point yet, wait till the gen 3 dies lol it wont
I have gen 3 m12, and would love to have the 4 m12, but I think the gen 4 m18 is my next buy.
@@praetorianstride5948 I'm pretty sure M12 is a generation behind. The new release was the 3rd gen. While m18 is on gen 4. Just letting you know you might be waiting a while if you want the m12 gen 4. Personally I want to see the gen 2 surge in m12 and m18. Hydraulic drivers are very nice but also much slower. A speed increase would be appreciated
Surges the best drill on the market
Well after searching all night for black friday sales i couldnt decide what to get. I was going to buy the standard brushless kit but the drill and impact lacked a bit compared to the gen 4 fuel. After failing to build the kit i truly wanted with all the "free" tools. $400 for the kit plus a router/jigsaw just wasnt what i was after. Found milwaukee is selling gen 3 fuel kits for $280 which i didnt even realize the difference till now. Saved $120 for a more than capable kit and in my view outperformed the gen 4 in alot of test. However them lights are way nicer on gen 4. But at the end of the day i have a nice kit and my $120 can go towards the bare tool i want. Great review.
Gonna upgrade from M18 non-Fuel Brushless impact driver. Served me well in the last 3 years, but now it's time to get more power. Was gonna get the Gen 3, but after seeing this, the Gen 4 is basically a Gen 3 with slightly faster RPM and IPM and a tri-LED light.
Awesome
I’ve got gen 3 and think I will skip, not because there is minimal difference but my gen 3 is way too new to switch. I love it and will run it till it’s dead. Now if I needed to replace it, I’ll go gen 4, why wouldn’t I?
Smart move
Great comparison video, I just like the way you guys do this. You make it interesting and fun to watch, with actual facts and real world usage that we can see. Well done Vince, keep up the good work 👍👍
Thanks, we appreciate that!
They were already pushing on the higher end with gen3 it makes sense that barely anything changed. My 5 year old dewalt still does everything, I just got the gen3 for heavier applications.
If it works, keep using it Jack
Had an old boss that used dewalt, love the design, but can’t deviate from the rest of the crew if you know what I’m sayin.
I have the gen 3 and decided to get the gen 4. Returned it after a few days of using it. I personally don’t feel no difference other than the light. I’m more than fine with my gen 3, and I do a bunch of cabinet work, building decks, framing where you need to use the screws for trusses and other stuff like that and a bunch of other wood working projects. Just didn’t seem like it was really worth the extra money for something new. I’m fine with waiting until a gen 5 comes out. I had the old brushless impact and there was night and day difference between that and the gen 3. I will wait until another drill comes out with a big difference. I know people will buy the gen 4 though because people love throwing money like it’s nothing. I got the hammer drill/impact kit along with 100 piece drill bits and also 23 piece metal drill bits on a deal all for $162 off Home Depot awhile back. Best deal I had seen in a while. Came in a hard case and all
I always buy new... Business write off lol
I just bought the m12 surge for my compact setup to fit in my 3-drawer setup. Waiting to grab the gen 4 m18 for my power house.
I dont think there is enough in the Gen 4 to get me to “upgrade” from my gen 3.5! However, I am VERY curious how it stacks up against the Flex!!!!!
Thanks for all the effort you put into your videos Vince…great entertainment value and informative!
Cheers!
Thanks Steve!
What the model# for a Gen 3.5 and Gen 3. I purchased the m18 fuel combo on December. How do I know which one I have.
@@pedropassament4299 Vince did a video on it…just search thru his vids…it’s what I did before going out to buy it.
@@shigthehandyman thanks
Look in the collet 2 balls = 3.5
I'm a M12 user wanting to add M18 watching this demonstration first thing I noticed was the much brighter light output from Gen 4. Excellent video 👍
Maybe not a big upgrade in performance but the new lights are nice to have. Plus I'm sure they spent a lot of time trying to solve the trigger issues. Probably just an all around better tool not just performance upgrade. Me personally I'll be waiting on the new M12 stuff to upgrade to from current gen!
I didn’t realize how much better the new lights are until I watched the video (especially slo mo parts)!
@@VCGConstruction Night and day! Literally!
Great stuff. Yeah I’m waiting for the m12 version too. Hopefully you do that one soon before I buy it
What was the trigger issue?
Whats your reason for choosing m12 over m18
I'm wondering if the tail of the two will be revealed if you swap out the xc5.0 for for some H.O. batteries, I got a hunch that the technology in the Gen 4 allows it to take better advantage of them 21700 cells. Maybe even already programmed to take better advantage of pouch cells with better efficiency who knows, the gen 3 M12 are programmed to take advantage of the new HO batteries, maybe same technology is in the M18. I'd like to see this test ran again with some newer battery technology. 🤞🤞
Good thinking
I don’t think the newer generations are necessarily “programmed” to take more advantage of higher output batteries. I think that the “red link” or “red lithium advantage” in every Milwaukee tool allows the chip in the tool to see what the peak amperage it can consistently draw under load. I say this because with both the M12 and M18 high output batteries they advertised 20% more power in tools that had been released years ago.
I’m sure the newer generations are created with higher output in mind, not that the previous weren’t- but that the chips onboard are more efficient than the PCBs of 4-7 years ago,
Thanks for the tool test. I love my Milwaukee tools. I liked the side by side comparison even though half the video it was difficult to see who had the 3 and who had the 4. Overall I would say if you have the 3, there's not enough difference to "upgrade" to the new model. Just the information I needed. Thank you.
just look at the gray part. Gne3 has curve on the gray part. Gen4's just right out flat with black finish
Im a Milwaukee Fanboy but definitely not opposed to using other brands. Ive just been in the ecosystem for over 10 year and have never had any major issues. I do take extremely good care of my tools by using them correctly. I rarely use an impact to drill holes or a drill to drive screws. I make use of mid torque for medium duty and high torque for heavy as to not over work my tools
How can you not use the impact driver for screws? That's what it was designed for. What do you use and why?
@@PrussianBlu3 He says he rarely uses an impact to drill holes or a drill to drive screws. That means he normally drills holes with a drill and he drives screws with an impact.
That's a tough one... The lights are better on gen 4 but if you're using your driver all day that vibration is going to kill you. Unless you work in a dark place it seems the gen 3 with less user fatigue is a no brainer choice
The lights have sold me. I was already sold on the drill with the gyro sensor so I guess I'm going to get the combo set in the future
Lights are definitely bright. They’re gonna be selling less flashlights!🤔
Looks like I'll be keeping my gen 3 stuff and wait to see if gen 5 has anything real to offer. I personally would love maybe a m24 line 😉
M24 seem not to be a bad idea thought. But the 18v its nice because when using smaller tool like impact etc the batteries are not huge . The 40v makita for instance its very great line of tool but the 40v need 2p batterie wich i don't like that much . Its why i think 18v its the best
@@OUTILSCLIPSQC 18v is 20v, it's just a different reading of the voltage. 18/20v = 5s which is 5 cells in series, packs are available in 5x1 5x2 and 5x3 A 24v would be 6s or 6 cells in series, so packs would only be very slightly larger.
Seems like a step down in terms of getting into tighter spaces also, because of the triLED it doesn't really taper and that's a bigger problem than anything else.
That heat buildup could also be a concern for longer term durability
The TriLED lights things up so much better. DeWalt really nailed that on theirs
@@kyle3045 if they'd incorporated the ¼" socket external shape of the collet that Bosch have, it would be a game changer. As is I don't see it as a replacement for the gen 3 but rather a tool for construction sites where you have good access but poor lighting, adding the easy change to a ¼" socket without an adaptor would be an amazing compact and versatile tool that covers many roles
I’m just bought my first set of M18 Fuel from HD don’t know it which gen hope it good 😊
I have the gen 3 impact and hammer drill set. I also have the gen 4 set of both. I prefer the gen 4 only because of tri light and being more compact for tighter spaces. I have 2 sets of each gen for my guys on the job site. If you want performance for the buck. Get gen 3. If more compact and the light matters. Get gen 4. It’s minimal on the compactness difference though
In my job I fit tin roof sheets a lot and the fastening mode is useless it works occasionally but more often than not it doesn't tighten down the rubber washer to make it waterproof
Thanks VCG much appreciated video. Vince you are the best of the best in handling impact driver.
Thanks Robert G! I think the impact driver has been one of the most important tools introduced in the last 15 years
During the slow-mo shots, you can see the vibration difference between gen 3 and 4. Looks like the Gen 4 had WAY better vibration dampening.
I replayed the video and the Gen 4 had more vibration (6:00- & 7:25-minute marks) and ran hotter than the Gen 3. Heat is what kills equipment, both electrical & mechanical. Add vibration to heat and the life-span diminishes ever more rapidly (ask any Reliability Engineer, like me). Based on this sample of one, each, the Gen 3 will last longer than the Gen 4.
I have Gen3, awesome power tools.
No need for extended bit. The Torx itself is enough. When put together it adds more kinetic energy on the tool itself - wear and tear - keep it short and sweet.
I have the gen3 and from the looks of your guys test it's definitely not worth upgrading and I definitely won't be. Great video guys thanks.
Thanks Nick, glad the video is helpful
I, too, bought a Gen 3 (with dual ball bit holder) a few months ago based on VCG's real-world reviews & comparisons. I am a DIY'er that appreciates and uses high-quality, contractor-grade tools. I have four old Dewalt 14.4 drills which still run fine, but was intrigued by the impact drivers, so I bought the Milwaukee M18 Fuel driver for about $90 (driver only). I bought the Milwaukee charger and two (cheap) aftermarket batteries for much less than half the price of Milwaukee batteries. They hold-up just fine for my projects and charge faster than I can discharge them.
I turn to VCG for reviews on accessories too. I thought the 30-piece Dewalt impact set was nice until I found the Milwaukee 100-piece set for about twice the price as the Dewalt, but with a much wider variety of bit sizes, types & lengths.
Nice Comparison I’m Interested In The Gen 4 Hammer Drill In Tool Test Wars
👍🏻
I have been using the gen3 for a few years and it's great, the only thing I dislike is progressive control/feel. I find it can be too over powered for day to day tasks as it ends up wanting to spin out, or bust bits over and over again. As where I find makitas impact works great for everyday use with progressive feel but the power isn't there. So I was hoping to see if the gen4 had a more progressive feel rather than focusing on power and speed
Ridgid fan 1 of my batteries just died went to use the warranty have to take to shop none near me. I was waiting for gen 4 to see how good it's is might just buy gen 3 before they're all gone. Great job 👍
Excellent review, informative and entertaining. It help me pull the trigger on a 2853 Black Friday deal .
good thing i have both just got the gen four week ago don't notice the difference as much either milwaukee is a solid tool company A++
I will be upgrading from my brushed Milwaukee 2656-20 to Milwaukee gen 4. I can’t seem to get my hands on a gen 3 because they are always sold out here in Canada but the gen 4 doesn’t seem to be selling really good right now.
I’ve got all m18 fuel tools gen 3 both impact drivers. Oscillating tool, hacksaw, hammer drill and brushed orbital sander, grinder, saws all and fan. It pays to wait to save money. I started with m12 but I wanted more power.
Vince, your video influenced to to buy the GEN3, without watching this, I would have ordered GEN4 today. Txs, Bro !
Please compare 12V gen 2 to gen 3. Thanks! 👊
Just ordered the m12 new gen combo excited to see how they work
Im still running my gen 2 lol its running as good as it did when i 1st got it in 2020 only thing i hate is the bit dont stay in half the time
I'd like to see you put the Gen 4 up against the M18 Fuel Surge Impact Driver. I was thinking about getting the Surge for work because it's a little quieter than the basic tool. But if the M18 Fuel Gen 4 beats it out. Just might have to change what I get.
I have both and the gen 4 is Def more powerful. I run hundreds of self tapping screws daily and the surge just can't compete with the gen 3 or 4.
@@johnnyt4654 I am actually thinking of getting the Gen 4 for work. It'll come in really handy when replacing some things on Semi Tractors or Trailers.
I'd like to see bigger lags and a whole TTR on them thanks ive been waiting to see it in action....
What size lags Brandon?
@@VCGConstruction just do what you do brother a ttr were gonna have to put it against flex 24v id also like to see some ho batteries in it aswell mabey it needs the high output batteries to get optimal results 😉
@@VCGConstruction 5/16"x 4" would be good, dontcha think?
I what to buy gen 4 when is coming out
just replaced my gen 1 with gen 4, drill was starting to play up, lets see if it lasts as long.
i have the m12 gen 4 but thinking about getting the m18 because my m12 doesnt have the power to screw self tappers thru sheet metal into air handlers
Great comparison and testing!
Glad you liked it!
So, what I am seeing that the only really difference is lighting and heat? Does the Gen 4 improved lighting add to the heat? The new cost higher on the Gen 4 than you can get a Gen 3? Something to contemplate. Ridgid Ron
I’m gonna watch when we take the temps a second time and give you my thoughts!
@@VCGConstruction Looking for forward to it
Hello again Vince and Vcg
Thank you for another Great Video 👍 I think, I will stay with M12 for now. It does everything I need!!!!! I enjoy watching. Again thank you
George you’re the best thank you!
@@VCGConstruction Hello again Vince
You make that easy!!!!
I’m a diy’er with a 2600 model drill I found in my late fathers garage, anxiously waiting on gen4s release. However, I am not really seeing a noticeable difference between them, you tell me. Gen3 has had time to be improved, and it would seem to be just as good if not better.
Gen 3 is the way to go.
This is the test I was waiting for Vince. I think I might get those Gen3 tool deals that they are going to be wanting to get rid of to bring in the Gen 4.
Don’t blame you Kenny!
Good "dual", I'm waiting for the M12 to come out, can't wait to see the winner in that test, good one Vince.
I love the m12. I don’t need much more other than tearing through brick, (which is often) which it can do but it takes more time. I love the tri-leds. That is a huge selling point for me.
Can you compare the Gen3 drill/hammer drill to the Gen4 drill/hammer drill? I am curious if they reduced the heat it can generate.
Sure ting
Been working with the gen 3 for the last few years been great before tht I had the hydraulic surge version tht was quite use to break screws a lot so am about to order this new gen 4 so looking forward to see the different liking the upgrade on the lighting so far the thts a winner already
Keeping the current gen 3 and will buy the gen 4. Doesn't hurt to have an extra around
Break it in slow! Don’t fully put it in the jobsite mix until after you get your first scratch on it! 👍🏻
@@VCGConstruction thanks for the heads up Vince. Will do that☺️
I have the gen 3.5 and I just purchased the gen 4 today. After seeing this video I’m a little concerned. Hope I made a good long lasting choice. To be honest I really only bought it for the Tri light, I didn’t expect more power. I can’t imagine even needing any more power than what the gem 3 offers.
how can u compare both when u let the oother cool down before u do it
Vince Jimmy thanks for making the video... I think I will wait a bit & stick with my gen 3 for now. Maybe if the run some great promotion on gen 4. I will pick it up . Not going to pay full price. I use m12 more then m18. I like the smaller form factor.
lol thats why had to get the gen 4. My ryobi from 2015 has the tri light. game changer. Now Milwaukee needs to add the magnet and bit holder that my ryobis have. Still not used to not having them...
Thanks for the tool test Vince. Jimmy looking good hope you're doing good. Not too excited about Gen 4. The improved collet and Tri Lights with 100 more impacts per minute should have been on Gen 3. I'll stick with my single LED, less than great collet, and intermittent dead trigger for a bit longer.
Thanks Skillz, we appreciate it! 👍🏻
Can you please do a review on the milwaukee m18 90 degree drill and test it with 1" paddle bits please I would greatly appreciate it.
Love to see videos like this. Are you doing this with the M12 line too? (Because I'm a home owner/contractor and use M12 tools instead of M18)✌️🤠
Nice comparison vid, and wish Milwaukee at pipeline had this kind of test going on as well as using other brand’s tools. It would be nice if at new tool events, the companies/brands, what have you; ALSO HAD PRIOR GEN of the tools to run and actually compare differences in last gen to new gen; would be cool to see, but not sure anyone has done this. Could be wrong….
Thx Vince and Jimmy, you guys rock (and that slo-mo w/ vibration of gen 4, looked like and sds hitting you😉)
Cheers✌🏻
Thanks Aepek, the vibration was only a problem on that one lag test in speed 2 for me.
I’m still on the first brushless version but I don’t know if I want the gen 2 fuel driver now that’s cheaper with the battery, or go with the surge
I know it’s probably not needed but even slower motion would be great for those photo finishes.
Thanks for the video as always. Love that y’all give the facts and not just say buy the latest. By any chance what would you guys recommend for fastening SDS screws? I burned through my gen 3.5 m18 impact. My flexvolt advantage dewalt drill does great with them but can’t get into the tight spaces between studs.
I wish they would do a thermal test and a comparison when both are hot and how much it takes to get them hot those are honestly more important than cold performance
Ima stick to my gen 3.5 I use for hvac sheet metal duct work . So far it’s been decent .
I don't own either, but I'd get the Gen 4 just for the lights if everything else is a basic tie... assuming price/deal is close.
We've had all the Milwaukee impacts over the years... Gen 3 has problems with the trigger where it stays in either forward or reverse and won't switch right away... Also the bit never stays in...
I like the trilight I've always admired that in DeWalt but I'm sticking with gen for 3.
If a gen 2 surge came out with a tri-light I would buy one of them
Great honest review nice vid Vince
Thanks Matt
Hey Vince, been a while. Still crankin out some great videos, thanks bro. All these speed tests and comparisons are great, but...........
What I think we really need to see are some long term durability tests. How long do these tools actually last out in the field before they fail. Kinda difficult to drive screws if your driver has gone deep six. Might be something to look at. How many work hours can you expect out of a cordless tool before it needs repaired or replaced.
Me personally, my feelings are a little mixed with Milwaukee M18 Fuel. On one hand I've been using a gen 2 hammer drill / driver set, 4 1/2- 5 in grinder and hackzall for 2 years with zero issues. Even dropped the hackzall in a grease trap full of water with an 8 hour battery, blew it out and let it dry, and it ran fine with the same battery. Framing nailer, rear handle circ saw, no issues. However, radio died after a week. Homedepot replaced it. 9in grinder died on the job after 7 months. Took a month to get it repaired. 1 1/4 rotary hammer died after 11 months. Milwaukee has had it now for almost 2 months with no word as of yet when I can expect to get it back.
You have a pretty good sized crew with an assortment of tools and brands. How well do your all's tools hold up. Or maybe take a survey and make a chart with comparisons. Be sure to include the type of work they perform. I do mostly comercial site work and concrete with a bit of framing and electrical mixed in so my tools take a beating. It might be time to sacrifice some tools for the cause. 🤔
You and the crew have a great holiday and stay safe.
Didn’t see too much of a difference besides the lights of course, but I was gonna get the Gen 3 cause I only run the Gen 2 m12 fuel right now, but the Gen 4 looks nice. Thanks for the video Vince!
Thanks Ryan!
@@VCGConstruction is there an actually release date for the Gen 4 impact or is it just sometime in August? I’d love to get my hands on it. My Gen 2 M12 fuel is very nice as an electrician’s apprentice, but sometimes it isn’t as strong as I’d like, and that new impact would help out a lot.
I have the Gen 3 M18 Fuel impact
I will be keeping it for a while0
Especially after Milwaukee just sent me a brand new one-key
Double bearing updated version of the Gen3
I'm crossing platforms and voltage...
I need 3 sets of tools to cover my properties. Dewalt 20v and M12 are choice.
When you doing the gen 4 Hammer drill and the M12 3rd gen hammer drill and impact
What about the new Gen 4 Milwaukee Impact driver vs the DeWalt DCF850? Which one is more compact and more powerful???? I'm curious if Milwaukee caught up with the compactness as it looks slightly the same just with the chuck area being a bit smaller? Also no Powerstack technology from Milwaukee.... curious how the DCF850 with a power stack will stack up against the Milwaukee Gen 4 with a 5AH battery! Also we got 5Ah Powerstack batteries coming!!!
yeah I'm sticking with my DeWalt atomic. it's by far the most compact 20v impact. love the damn thing.
I have it and I like it, but it is not nearly as powerful as the M18 Fuel. I own both, like them both, if I had to choose one it will definitely be the Milwaukee
@@levskitoronto I'm an HVAC installer. It's more than powerful enough. It's the best impact for getting into tight spaces
Thx for the comparison
Been holding out for gen 4 or 3.5 since your earlier videos of the bit getting stuck in the wood. Kinda surprised it didn't happen this time around with the G3.... I'll be buying the G4
Good video guys I have gen 3 one key version and gen 4 fuel very good power tools
As a DIY’er I will look forward to your Gen 3 blowout price alerts over the next month……hopefully there will be some deals!
You know it! 👍🏻
You can already get the gen 3 for about $68 at home depot.
@@miggythegreat really…..how? Haven’t checked prices in a few days. Is it done with a hack?
@@bbcamillo yeah look up the impact. Comes with a 3.0 for $129 which a decent deal in itself but if you don’t want the 3.0, return it and the impact comes out to about $68.
I will be getting the new m12 fuels when they come out! Use my m12 fuel Daily for work
Million $ question: Did Milwaukee fix the COLLET????? Does it still drop the bits??
About to get my Gen 4 soon! Can’t wait 🔥 selling my 2850-20
Go Vince!
I've, NO We've been waiting for this for a bit!
If all they did was fix the Chuck issue and add those lights its enough for me to get it.
I love my Gen ll OneKey which I'll probably frame & mount as my most used & valued tool next to my 5-N-1.
Yeah Vince,
Its the lights!
Nothing wrong with improving reliability adding a bell and whistle or 2!
Heat destroys. I wonder if it’s getting hotter, because they have done some cost savings with heat sync & mass. I’d still buy the gen3 over the 4. Seems to have basically the same motor. Can’t wait to see a tear down of each to compare.
Can you do this test again but with the high output cp3.0 battery?
Keeping my gen 3 😁 ! Nice for lights but that about it.
I don’t currently have a impact driver. I have been watching and May make the move to Milwaukee from Ryobi and see how it goes. My application is self drilling screws into hard metal for wood walls in my metal building. Where is best place to purchase Milwaukee?
Thanks Jimmy! 👍
The real question is: did they improve the trigger control on delicate fasteners? It already had more than enough power to compete with anything on the market.
What type of “delicate” fasteners we talking about?
@@VCGConstruction cabinet screws when installing kitchens for example. The gen 3's trigger control is kinda difficult to control and ramps up to full bore too quickly in my opinion. I know you shouldn't use an impact driver for really delicate work, but sometimes it happens :p.
Just wanted to know if you’re assembling computers with the thing! 🤣
@@VCGConstruction now that would be a great test 👍.
I swear this dude could hold a world record for most screws put or something like that you can tell he’s very familiar with the process
Great vid. Two impact beasts in action!
Thanks Barty!
Yes, Vince and Jimmy are high impact beasts all day
Where can I find the best magnetic bit holder? Something that magnetically holds the fastener? I thought I saw a video about those on the channel.
Cool stuff 😎
I think there both top of the line tools.
I'm a Metabo Bosch kind of guy, but if I had to pick one. I would go Gen 4 because I like the LED lights on Gen 4.
Thanks for the video Vince.
Good 👍🏼 video and comparison between the gen 3 & gen4
Did they fix the collet problem even though they added a second ball bearing?
Also on gen 3 and I’m not sure about gen 4 you don’t have to pull out the locking mechanism to insert different tooling it’s quick connect just push in the bit and it locks in by itself with out pulling the lock mechanism out like on the older m18 1/4 hex impact drivers